How I Reversed Hashimoto’s (a Thyroid Autoimmune) Disease with Diet, Detox, and Lifestyle

I was diagnosed with Hashimoto’s disease back in 2009. Here’s my story of how I reversed my thyroid autoimmune disease with diet, detox and lifestyle.

In 2008 I suddenly became very sick, and for nine months, I couldn’t find a doctor who would really listen or run any tests. They most often told me I had dry skin, handed me a tube of steroid cream and moved on to the next patient.

I had hives from the neck up, all the skin on my face and neck peeled off twice a day, my hair was falling out, and I was depressed. I spent my days and nights with ice packs on my face because my skin felt like it was burning. I cried a lot. I stopped outside activities and just stayed home.

After nine painful months, I finally found a doctor who listened, thought about potential causes, and ran tests. In 2009, I was diagnosed with Hashimoto’s disease – a thyroid autoimmune disease. The doctor offered to prescribe a medicine called Synthroid, but didn’t provide a hopeful prognosis.

He explained that it might help ease my symptoms, but eventually my thyroid would stop working and I’d be on medication for the rest of my life. This wasn’t enough for me. I wanted get to the root cause, so I looked for a solution elsewhere.

I started working with a nutritionist who helped me figure out the trigger that sent my body into its downward spiral. The fact that my thyroid and other organs weren’t working in harmony was a symptom of a bigger issue. We focused on fixing that issue first.

What was my root cause? The evidence led us to conclude that heavy metal poisoning and resulting severe inflammation triggered my Hashimoto’s. During the summer of 2008, I had a large amalgam filling removed from one of my molars.

The dentist didn’t take the proper precautions during the very long procedure. For three hours I breathed the vapors as he drilled the amalgam from my mouth. Amalgam is approximately 50% mercury.

As soon as I sat up, I felt sick. I stumbled out of the office and spent the next week mostly in bed, exhausted and without energy. My health quickly deteriorated from that point on.

I spent several years detoxing the heavy metals out of my system and trying to minimize inflammation. The result? I’ve reclaimed my health and I’m symptom-free (and medicine-free!).

Here are five main steps I took to reverse Hashimoto’s Disease:

1. I improved my digestion. Most people who are struggling with Hashimoto’s have some sort of digestion issues. Most digestion issues are rooted in low stomach acid due to stress.Low stomach acid prevents the body from properly breaking down and utilizing the nutrients in food.

This can lead to bloating, heartburn, indigestion, leaky gut, IBS, colitis, autoimmune disease, food intolerances, etc. I followed these steps to increase my stomach acid to improve my digestion.

2. All thyroid disease is rooted in some sort of adrenal imbalance, so I took steps to balance my adrenals. The adrenal glands are the body’s emergency system. When the body is under chronic stress, the adrenals will send out cortisol into the bloodstream. Over time, chronic cortisol output will weaken the endocrine system, liver, digestive system, and brain, and will also “slow down” your thyroid.

Even if you don’t have an issue with heavy metals, it’s still imperative to take steps to detox the liver to support thyroid hormone conversion. Here are 8 steps I took to detox my liver.

4. Sleep became a priority. One of the best ways to heal your adrenals and thyroid is with sleep. I struggled with insomnia, so it was an uphill battle for a while, but it was worth the battle! Here are 10 steps I took.

5. I ate a grain-free, nutrient-dense diet. I discuss in greater detail what I ate in my cookbook, The Grain-Free Family Table, but in a nut-shell here’s how I ate:I avoided:Processed foodsSugar (except for on special occasions)Gluten and all grainsSoy

I can’t even tell you how much all of these steps changed my life! I can now spend time with my kids, family and friends and be an active member of my community.

My doctor said I couldn’t reverse Hashimoto’s disease – I’m here to tell you it’s possible. Our bodies have an amazing ability to heal when given the right tools.

My health struggles and path to healing led me to write my book,The Grain-Free Family Table. In this book I share my entire story of recovery, health tips to help you reduce inflammation and begin recovering from disease, and over 125 grain-free recipes to get you going on the path.

As painful as it is to show you these photos and broadcast my struggles, I wanted to share my story for one reason – to bring others hope. There are over 30 million people in America who have been diagnosed with thyroid disease and another estimated 20 million who struggle with various autoimmune issues.

Most have been told they’re on a one-way street, with no hope of long-term healing.

Many other health issues either stem from or are aggravated by inflammation. Recent science points to heart disease, cancer, diabetes, allergies, arthritis, Alzheimer’s, neurological disorders, and tendonitis exhibiting links to inflammation.

Many people are now convinced of the need to reduce inflammation, but they need help figuring out how. I learned how to change my diet and help reduce my inflammation, giving my body the opportunity to recover. I’d like to help others take steps for themselves.

I have one simple request – will you please share my story with your friends and family? We all know someone struggling with autoimmune disease or other diseases related to inflammation. I believe they’ll find hope by hearing my story.

Note: None of the photos have been retouched or “Photoshopped”. These are the raw images. The “after” picture was taken with my iPhone and I’m not wearing any make-up other than a bit of blush, mascara and lipstick.

Disclaimer: This information is designed for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for informed medical advice or care. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat any health problems or illnesses without consulting your family doctor. Please consult a doctor with any questions or concerns you might have regarding your condition.

Posts may contain affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.

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260 Comments

I shared your story before I even clicked the link to read it. I love your blog, I admire your strength and I thank you for the wonderful information and recipes. Your cookbook is on my Christmas wish list!

Amazing results from diet change - o thankful that you were able to find someone who listened and someone who could help! Thank you for sharing your story. “Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food.” ― Hippocrates

I too got sick after having an amalgam removed in 2009. Within days I started breaking out on my face and thought I was detoxing. But that was just the beginning. My entire face broke out in bright red inflammation and started peeling. I realized it was peeling because my skin was dying cause the inflammation was so hot. I got cystic acne larger than the size of quarters that lasted for months and an eye stye that was the largest that my Dr had seen. It also eventually went black. What I was diagnosed with was rosacia... the inflammation has gone down over the years but has not completely gone away. I do acupuncture but have do it regularly or else it comes back. Very interesting to hear your story.

Wow. That is all I can say. Your story is very inspiring. My husband has been suffering for the last 2 years from an unknown condition where his joints all ache and he often has red and inflamed limbs and/or face. Many different doctors and even naturopaths have not been able to find out what it is. We are now working with a (third) naturopath who is testing him for heavy metal poisoning also. We have been going gluten-free for a year, and now started an even more restricted diet, eliminating all dairy, eggs, sugar and any additives. Hearing your story gives me such hope and also the realization that it's to be expected to have to wait a lengthy time for the body to start the healing process. Slow and steady. Thank you for sharing, and giving us hope.

Has your husband been tested for Mast Cell Activation Disorder? Once identified, the treatment is fairly easy. It involved a low histamine diet and antihistamines. You need to consult with an allergist who is also an immunologist. A list can be found here: http://meandmymastcells.com/category/the-doctors/ Good luck!

Hello :-) My name is Anna. This story reminds me of an ordeal I've been dealing with the past 2 years. In addition to being checked for metal poisoning also search for any possible mold growth in your home. The hidden kind, it doesn't even have to be "black mold". If your air quality test comes back with high levels of ANY type of mold/fungus you are dealing with a serious problem. The doctors were almost positive that I had systemic lupus because of my positive ANA and symptoms but the specific lupus test was negative. A few months later I discovered mold coming from our ventilation system. You could barely even smell it. It will creep up on you and its toxins will mimic autoimmune diseases within your body. We have had a professional mold remidiation service come in and clean up the hidden monster and I am feeling better and better by the day. I am looking for a detox to speed up my recovery and I stumbled across this post. I felt it was necessary to share what I went through. You may want to get an air quality test performed in your home just to make sure. Hope everyone starts feeling better soon. :-)

Good for you! So glad to hear you are able to live a healthy life again! I too am a firm believer that our bodies are amazing and can heal themselves if we provide them with the right tools (i.e., foods and plants, etc.)! I am very happy and thankful to have changed my ways of eating before I got any serious health issues. I've switched to eating a healthy and organic diet of whole foods 13 years ago and never felt better. Thank you for sharing your story to hopefully ncourage others to get other opinions, outside of the 'conventional' western medicine field. ECP xo

Oh my gosh...my son is currently suffering with colitis and has recently lost all of his hair...our dermatologist says the hair loss is autoimmune. I KNEW it had to be something we were doing diet wise. This gives me hope that I can make changes here and help him. Thanks for sharing.

Everything I have read ( which is a lot!) indicates that the need to take synthetic thyroid hormones will depend on how soon the autoimmune response is brought under control. Since with Hashimoto's the immune system is attacking and destroying the thyroid, if it has been untreated for a long time, there is usually irreversible thyroid damage. One reason why I think it is ultra-important that diet and lifestyle changes are done ASAP. Regardless of whether it is necessary to take the hormones or not, diet changes are CRUCIAL for a Hashi's patients.

I can't think of anybody who has to take Synthroid. If your thyroid is damaged beyond repair or has been removed, you do need to take thyroid replacement hormones, but nobody should be sentenced to Synthroid. Natural thyroid hormones or T3 are both much better options for just about everybody.

How inspiring! I have struggled with life threatening hives since I was 11, I am now 35. Hives would enclose my body in its entirety. My throat would swell shut, my hands and feet to the point I could no longer walk. This happened multiple times every year with the end result of me ending up in the hospital for days sometimes weeks at a time. I had to stop going to college, I have emense hospital and student loan debt for a degree I never got. Meds oh the meds....... Finally after so many docs even homeopathic I had no answers and I was so fusterated. I ate only whole foods no artificial anything no junk, I thought I was doing everything right. Two years ago I put myself through an elimination diet. I cut out everything except vegies, a few organic meats and minimal fruit. For days I was super sick my body was mad, however on that 5th day I woke up in no pain. Life got better so much better. My head was clear for the first time. I tell people it was almost like I had been in a fog without knowing it. I am able to eat many things I eliminated however I found I have a reaction to gluten, my joints literally swell before my eyes. Other grains are OK when limited to 4 times a week, dairy is OK in moderation as well. Its been 2 years without hives! I'm on the mend, years of horrible meds have altered my body in ways that were never necessary. I wish I could have figured this out much earlier in life.

I spent over 3 years suffering off and on with odd rashes, my skin weeping and oozing then peeling my neck, face, arms and my foot one time. I was given steroid creams then put on serious antibiotics even so far as seeing the infectious disease specialist and having a stint put into my heart for IV antibiotics. After struggling for so long I reluctantly took myself off bread this past March. With that I saw quick changes in my body! The doctors I saw were of little help. The allergist confirmed known allergies and my family doctor had little advice.

Carrie, Thank you for sharing this! I know first hand how external health issues can wreak havoc on your life and self esteem. I'm 27 and have always had great skin but last year my skin broke out all over my face ( far worse than yours..bright red, peeling endlessly and swollen). Doctors were clueless and hasty to prescribe and diagnose but I had already been pretty much grain free for the past 2 years but was eating a lot of fermented foods ( sourkraut, corridor, kefir, kombucha etc) a comprehensive food allergy revealed that I have an extreme allergy to yeast! The very thing that inspired dr. Mercola to start a lot of his research. So now my struggle is trying to find healthy "gut" foods that don't contain yeast ?and keeping a very low sugar diet. My thyroid is normal but My qusestion for you is how / what you used to heal scaring in your face? My skin is completely clear now..thanks God..but I have a lot of marks that I never had before.

I'm sorry to hear of your health issues, but glad you are turning to food to help the healing process. For the scaring - some of it filled in on it's own, but I still have a bit left on my cheeks. I've heard derma-roller treatments can be a huge help. I haven't tried them yet, but have thought of giving it a try in the future.

I have followed you for a long time, and I can remember thinking you are crazy after the first few grain free posts. I was diagnosed with Crohn's and bread was one of the few things I thought I could eat safely. Note that I said thought. A few months after your initial post, I broke out in a rash that wouldn't go away. Doctors couldn't figure it out. I finally gave the grain free thing a shot, remembering your posts, and in just a few weeks I started feeling better. The rash didn't go away for months, and eventually we determined I was Celiac. Now, after more than a decade on medicine, just getting by, but not really feeling great, I have been paleo for 2 years, and kicked all my medicines. I have to be vigilant about avoiding gluten, so we rarely eat out, but I don't feel deprived at all. I feel great, and just a month or so ago I ran my first 5K. So thanks. I wouldn't be here without you.

Haha! Believe me, when I first started eating grain-free I thought it was nuts too! I didn't tell anyone and it took me a long time to even talk about it on the blog! :) I'm so thrilled to hear that you've been able to turn your health around!! How incredible! I'm so glad my blog has been able to help you on your journey!

I am have been struggling with my health for years. Thanks to the diagnoses of my daughters SPD I met new people and one of them directed me on eating real organic food. I still struggle. Money is tight for us and every avenue I have tried has been a hit in the wall. I would love to know more about what test and detox protocol you did. I just wanna feel like REAL normal person should. My 4 children have had to suffer for caring for me while I struggle with my diagnoses of Hashimotos.

I'm sorry to hear of your health struggles. I know it can feel like a never-ending battle. Here are two posts about detox and inflammation that my nutritionist wrote that I think you'll find incredibly helpful. I'd also read the posts I've written on the "Health and Detox" page of my site. I'm not sure what you mean by "test protocol". Do you mind elaborating a bit, so I can better answer your question? Thanks! https://deliciouslyorganic.net/inflammation-how-to-reduce-it-naturally/ and https://deliciouslyorganic.net/10-things-need-know-detox/ Here is an online class that I found incredibly helpful (so much invaluable info in these sessions!): http://thethyroidsessions.com

I never took synthroid or any other medication, so yes, I've been able to be free of those medications. I highly recommend the articles over on "Your Thyroid Pharmacist" (her book is a great resource, too!). In one of her articles she discusses how some patients are eventually able to wean themselves off synthroid and rejuvenate the thyroid tissues. She also shares other's success stories. It's a wonderful site! Here's the url: http://www.thyroidlifestyle.com

Inspiring story. I've had Hashis for almost a decade. Came on after my last pregnancy. Does your antibody test back up the reversal? I'm just very curious. Tried gluten for 6 mos and it really made no difference and the last 3 mos of that was also grain free. Great to read someone's had success via food. I'm on armour :(.

I, too, would like to know whether the antibody test has revealed improvement for any of these people. I've got Hashimoto's myself. It helps a lot to take both Synthroid and Cytomel. That is, T4 and T3, respectively. Some people's bodies don't do well at breaking down T4 into T3, the form most of your body uses. Make sure that your doctor runs antibodies, and a T7 (T3 and a T4 level) NOT just a TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone.) You cannot make a thorough diagnosis with just a TSH. That is what the doctors are told, but it's not true.

Yes, my labs back up the reversal and I share those numbers in my upcoming cookbook. I learned that putting a disease like this into remission takes a very long time and there a lot of "two-steps forward, one-step back" kinda days (or months!). It took me over 4 years to put my disease into full remission. I encourage you to keep at it! :) I also recently found a blog that I highly recommend that discusses how to get to the root cause of your Hashimoto's disease and then how to reverse it. Here's the url: www.thyroidlifestyle.com (I just read her book this weekend and it's a great one!)

Good evening, I have one quick question. On your website you have a little box toward the upper right hand corner telling us what you have overcome. One of them was eczema. I have had eczema since I was little, but just last year I had a massive outbreak and it lasted for several months. I would get little sleep at night because of it. I finally decided to go to an allergist after several people recommended that to me. I didn't get tested, but I already knew that I am allergic to nickel. Little did I know that nickel is in almost everything you eat, just some stuff has more nickel than others. After finding that out, I have noticed certain things break me out, I'm guessing because of how much nickel is in it. So my question to you is, by changing your diet, did your eczema completely go away, or did it just subside a lot?

I have been struggling with atopic dermatitis for several years now. It seems to have begun with dental work (gold crowns over amalgam filling) and increasing in severity with metal impacts for rotator cuff repair (failed twice) after which I developed alopecia. I am on synthroid bc I had half my thyroid removed due to large nodules-no evidence of Hashi's. I have been GF for years but now I am on a low nickel diet There are several lists available, the best is from Penn State you can google low nickel diet. Unfortunately the low nickel diet excludes nuts, which means many of these recipes are not OK. Hopefully you get relief. I love this blog-inspiring

Thank you for your article! I've been struggling with Hashimoto's for 12 years now, and still have hypothyroid symptoms. I've been off all gluten grains, dairy, eggs, & soy for the past year and a half, and just recently switched from Synthroid to Armour thyroid medicine. I've seen some improvement, but I still have symptoms. I don't know what to do next. Any ideas?

I'm sorry to hear of your health issues. I'm not a licensed practitioner, so I can't give specific advice, but if I were in your shoes, I'd look into a grain-free diet. My nutritionist taught me that all grains can aggrevate the thyroid when you have a thyroid disease, so by omitting them, you can allow the body to rest and being repairing. I think my new cookbook will be a huge help for you. I a lot of information about how diet can help reduce inflammation as well as over 125 recipes.

Are you taking Seleniun order to decrease antibodies? Have you tested for Helicobacter Pylori and SIBO. Make also a minerals (hair) test. it will help you identify if you have high heavy metals levels and mineral deficiencies.

I have hashimoto's disease and I've suffered with it for years. I have a hard time believing you have reversed it. Are you saying you cured it? Maybe you have, but in all the years I've dealt with this I've never heard one person say they've cured their autoimmune disease. I guess I lost hope and I am doubting your story.

I have reversed the disease and/or put it into remission. I don't use the word "cure" because I firmly believe that if I began eating an unhealthy diet or chose other unhealthy habits that I could bring it back. There are many others who have the same story as me (many have written of their health recovery stories in the comments). I recommend checking out www.thyroidlifestyle.com and www.sarahwilson.com and read through their success stories of reversing Hashimoto's. Don't lose hope! I know this disease can feel like it's never-ending, but things can change for the better! :)

I have Hoshimotos too. I get these hives on my neck and just like you said, doctors can't figure it out and gave me steroid cream. I am grateful to have seen this, it was never connected to Hoshimotos. Thank you!

How wonderful and inspiring to hear that you've used food to heal yourself. Just tell me one thing; please tell me that the kitchen in the picture is a set and not your real kitchen. Seriously, no one's kitchen can be that spotless unless they never use it...and it sounds like you use yours frequently. Good luck on your continued journey and thanks for sharing your story.

Ha! :) That is a kitchen at a local vacation rental. I LOVE my kitchen, but it has cherry cabinets and black granite counters which was a bit too dark for the look I was going for. It was a beautiful kitchen to shoot in!

My face and neck looked much the same, only much redder and much more swollen. I was allergic to PPD in hair dye, a well known brand. If you ever used hair dye, check your timeline for coinciding symptoms. The amalgam is logical also. The redness and peeling is miserable and lasted for a good six months. I now have it under control thanks to a wonderful dermatologist, but experience cross reactions to other things. It takes much patience to assess and solve the problem. I offer you my sympathies.

I too have a similar story. Last year my asthma was so out of control that the doctors no longer knew what to do. I was on steroids more than I was off. I was determined to figure out how to fix the root cause. I too found lots of information about chronic inflamation. My doctor agreed but said medicine has not figured out how to stop the inflamation, rather just keep treating the symptoms. I had lost more than half of my hair. I was becoming sicker and sicker despite eating healthier and losing 40 pounds. The more weight I lost, the sicker I was becoming. With my doctor's blessing, I decided to try the Mediterranean diet as opposed to Paleo. I instantly had stomach bloating so bad I did not eat for 2 days. Hallelujah, I found my problem, oats. My mother confirmed I was allergic to oats as an infant (an allergy that doctors believe you grow out of). I ate oats my entire childhood and into adulthood. It is added as an ingredient in many processed foods in many different forms (especially diet food). Despit allergy testing that was negative for oats, I have an oat sensitivity that was wreaking havoc and causing chronic inflamation causing many Heath conditions - diabetes, hair loss, high blood pressure, asthma. I cut out ALL oat from my diet. I did not cut out other grains! Sugar levels greatly improved, blood pressure down, hair growing back in astounding amounts, asthma completely gone, meds cut down to two pills (smallest dosage). Ultimately, I am glad I did not go Paleo as I would never have identified the particular grain that was making me sick. I am always monitoring to make sure other grains are not causing me issues. So far so good!

That's a big part of the problem - allergy testing doesn't always reveal sensitivities. I'm so glad you were able to isolate your causative agent to one grain, since, despite what you're hearing lately, grains can be very good for you. How did you guess at oats? Because of what your mother remembered? Did you use a rotation diet to find out what sensitivities you have? Keep a record of what you eat and note how you feel after different ingredients? In the book "The Yeast Connection," there is a table of foods with LAP (low allergy potential) and HAP (high allery potential.) I remember that rice is LAP. Now that there are rice milks available as well as soy, coconut, almond, etc. we have more choices.

This is an amazing testament to the power of good food. I was diagnosed with an underactive thyroid in 2008 and have been on Synthroid ever since. When I approach doctors about a more holistic way to treat this, I'm told there is no way and that I will be taking meds the rest of my life. Where do I turn for the proper support in trying to wean off meds?

I highly recommend the book, "Lifestyle Interventions for Finding and Treating the Root Cause" by Izabella Wentz. She discusses how to find the root cause of your disease, how to start the reversal process and then eventually (hopefully!) wean off of the medications. It's a fabulous book! Here's the link: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0615825796ie=UTF8&creativeASIN=0615825796&tag=deliciorgan03-20

I just found your story from my Facebook newsfeed. Our stories are very similar. I got a stomach bug in June of 2012. After 7 days and losing 10 pounds, I realized that something was wrong. It didn't go away for several months. I also started losing my hair, my skin got very dry and I was cold all the time. It took many Doctors before anyone would take me seriously. I was eventually diagnosed with Hypothyroidism along with a bunch of other things wrong as evidenced by my blood tests. Now, with my incredible team including an MD, NP, and an EDS Analyst, I am finally feeling like myself again. I started eating dairy-free right after I got sick in 2012 and I started eating gluten-free about one year ago. I believe that my diet choices have greatly improved my health. I look forward to buying and using your cookbook! Thank you for sharing your story; I know it will help many people!

Hi Carrie, You may already know about ASEA, but if you don't, please consider adding it to your daily regimen. It's an amazing product; it's neither a drug or food; it contains trillions of special molecules (that allow cells to communicate, work more efficiently) that are native to the body. ASEA empowers the body to do what God designed it to do... heal itself. It makes a wonderful part of a healthy lifestyle.

I love this site and admire your courage . I had to do my own research to find out how sick I was. Candida and MS. It may be worse but I don't trust doctors now. Changed my entire eating lifestyle and my whole lifestyle in general. It's been a little more then a month and I am a changed person. Now I'm helping friends do the same. I think it's ridiculous what they are doing to our food. You can't even trust organic. I have a blog I'm just starting helping others through their ailments. Teaching them why they feel the way they do. I hope we can share some recipes and conversation. Your books look amazing . Thank you for inspiring me even more. I will be visiting this sight often <3

Wow Wow, Could never image this could happen, you have given me an eye opener for my family and me. On this very evening, I am making plans to change my diet and exercise a lot more thanks to your article. I will be sharing with family and friends. Thank you so much.

I've had auto-immune disease(s) for well over a decade. I have Hashimoto's, but it's thought to be part of a bigger auto-immune issue that nobody can figure out. I take natural thyroid hormone, and have pretty much since I was diagnosed. I already eat a diet similar to yours. Organic fruit and veg, some grass-fed organic milk, some organic raw dairy. I've been eating this way for about 6-8 years now, yet I still have to take thyroid hormone, and I suspect I always will. I was wondering if you had more explanation behind the grain-free and link to heavy metals? It could be on your blog, I'll admit this is my first time here, if so please accept my apologies. I'd love to get rid of these issues, and I've tried close to everything. I went vegan for years, I went gluten-free, I went grain-free, etc... yet no dice. How long was it between your diagnosis and your recovery? I read you mentioned you never took thyroid hormone, I wonder if taking hormone for so long pretty much negates recovery. Thanks for sharing!

The heavy metals caused severe inflammation in my body, so avoiding all grains gave my body the ability to rest and begin the healing process. I was diagnosed in 2009 and last year was when things finally all came together. Of course, prevention and maintenance will always be part of my life, but hey, I'll take it! :) That's a good question (not taking thyroid medication). I don't know if that have have a long-term affect or negate recovery. Interesting topic to look into!

R. Parker: In case this is helpful to you, I've been meeting for the past several months with the same hollistic nutritionist Carrie has worked with. I was put on Synthroid/Levothyroixine around age 17 (how I would LOVE to sit down and give that doc a piece of my mind now!)...anyway, I've been on it now for about 17 years, and still the nutritionist feels that once the root issues of my symptoms are properly addressed, we can begin the work of getting off the thyroid hormone completely. I truly hope the same is true for you! :)

Thank YOU for this!! I struggled with Hashi's since my daughter was born in 2010. Docs didn't diagnose it for a year. Basically, what was set to be the best year of my life, with my first child, turned out to be the worst. Same thing...be on Synthroid forever and my thyroid will eventually putter out. I found a holistic doctor who ran labs and found out my hormones were CRAZY out of whack too. This last year, I've been taking supplements (not a lot, just Vit D, B12, and a couple that help with hormones), cut out gluten, ate organic and rid my home of toxic chemicals. I feel amazing compared to the last few years. BUT, here's the rub-I'm terrified to stop Synthroid. I can't go back to the way it was. CANNOT! I guess I'll have to eventually take a chance to see if it works...maybe.

I'm glad to hear you are feeling better and making such huge changes! Has your doctor said you could slowly begin to wean off of the Synthoid? Maybe he could come up with a plan for you to gradually decrease your dosage.

Wondering if you had Cyrex testing done during this process? I have Hashimotos and a pretty serious neurological disease called Charcot Marie Tooth. I had serum food allergy testing a few years ago that indicated that I am allergic to basically all that I am eating, and I eat a very healthy, clean diet. The anxiety of following that protocol was so stressful that I abandoned it. Two years later, I just had Cyrex testing and it showed that I am cross reacting to other foods just as if it was gluten (I have been GF for 4 years)....wants me to eliminate things like amaranth, yeast, coffee (my vice), all dairy, corn, rice, potatoes. The list goes on and on. Frustrated about it all and confused as I should have massive inflammation and my CRP came back normal! I look healthy and I feel pretty healthy, but my results on the labs seem to say otherwise.

I'm so sorry to hear of your health issues. I understand the anxiety of following such rigid protocols. It can be all consuming! I never had Cyrex testing, but have heard of it. Here are two posts written about detox and inflammation that my nutritionist wrote that I think you'll find helpful: https://deliciouslyorganic.net/inflammation-how-to-reduce-it-naturally/ and https://deliciouslyorganic.net/10-things-need-know-detox/

Your story is amazing. Suddenly, last year my knees swelled days after starting a hormone patch. I also had a strawberry rash on my face. I am now on Humira, it was my last resort. I am afraid of this drug but feel I have tried everything. I tried the antibiotic therapy, supplements, eliminating gluten, had many blood tests. The doctor's best guess -RA. It is an expensive journey, I look forward to reading your book.

I am so glad I saw this article. Several years ago I developed a large goiter in my thyroid that was rendering my breathing, so I had it removed along with a little over half of my thyroid. Of course since then I have been on synthroid. I have struggled and struggled with my weight since my operation. I have recently gained about 15 lbs and can not for the life of me get it to come down. Well about three weeks ago I noticed my face had started breaking out really bad. Clusters of tiny little bumps which turned out to be hives. I have been going crazy trying to figure out what was causing the breakout. My husband has been telling me to go back to the Endo. To have my TSH levels checked, but I brushed him off. Guess I should have listened. How did you go about choosing a nutritionist? I do not want to be pumped full of more meds and I know that is what will happen if I head back to the Endo. Thank you so much for sharing your story. This knowledge will help so many people.

I'm so sorry to hear of your health struggles. It can seem like a long, dark road. Here's some info that I think will help you: To find a holistic practitioner in your area: Here --> https://www.functionalmedicine.org/practitioner_search.aspx?id=117 Here --> http://www.abihm.org/search-doctors Here --> http://nutritionaltherapy.com/ntp-referral-list/ Here --> http://primaldocs.com Here are two posts I think you'll find incredibly helpful that were written by my nutritionist about detox and inflammation (I go into more detail about my detox and protocol in the book): https://deliciouslyorganic.net/inflammation-how-to-reduce-it-naturally/ and https://deliciouslyorganic.net/10-things-need-know-detox/ Here is an online class that I found incredibly helpful: http://thethyroidsessions.com

Thank you for sharing! I too am struggling from "sub-clinical" hypothyroidism... aka I don't have visible symptoms... yet. But it's not about how I look on the outside. I just don't feel well. Have you completely stopped taking Synthroid or other thyroid medication since going grain free?

Dear Carrie! This just made me cry! I was suffering from dermatitis for over 10 years, from the age of 10 until the age of almost 20, getting worse and worse every year. The only thing that helped was cortisone, which fortunately I only used as ointments and never having received injections. The symptoms were so bad, I went as far as shaving my hair off, as the itchy rash spread from my scalp to my arms, to my neck, eyes and legs. I slept with gloves to not wake up from scratching myself bloody, hung scarfs over mirrors as I couldn't stand my own reflection. When I turned 18, my parents and I saw no other option that to seek help at an alternative medicine hospital in Germany (where I am born and was raised and lived at the time) as no other doctor would help me. The people there were amazing, they put me on a 10 day tea and water fast, teaching me everything about a vegan diet and treating me with acupuncture, baths and massages. After 5 weeks, I was almost symptom free, having only few spots left that were inflamed and itchy. They suggested that I should have the 10 amalgam fillings I had gotten from age 8 on taken out but should insist that my dentist should use a dental dam. I had my dentist take out all 10 fillings at the same time, using a dental dam, and 3 weeks later, I was COMPLETELY symptom free - never had another itchy spot since then. I am so happy that you are feeling better and wish I could give you a hug! LOVE AND HAPPINESS TO YOU! Barblin

I cannot tell you the amount of doctors, pills, injections, clinics and number of visits we have gone through over the past 3 years trying to understand what is causing the chronic hives my mother has been and still is experiencing. I came across your post, and you have given us hope...how do you go about finding a proper nutritionist to recommend the right approach for my mom? She also has thyroid issues, is currently taking Synthroid, but she is depressed, has little energy (despite the daily exercising routine at the gym), and is in constant pain from the hives. In fact, years ago, she would claim that she also tasted metal in her mouth, and I could not believe it when I saw you experienced the same symptoms. Any advice you can share about approaching the right nutritionist would be greatly appreciated. We are tired of the time, money and energy we've spent with all these doctors that are trying to treat the symptoms, but do not get to the root cause. Again, truly appreciate your help in advance and God Bless.

I'm so sorry to hear of your mother's health issues. Here's some info for you. . . To find a holistic practitioner in your area: Here --> https://www.functionalmedicine.org/practitioner_search.aspx?id=117 Here --> http://www.abihm.org/search-doctors Here --> http://nutritionaltherapy.com/ntp-referral-list/ Here --> http://primaldocs.com Here are two posts I think you'll find incredibly helpful that were written by my nutritionist about detox and inflammation (I go into more detail about my detox and protocol in the book): https://deliciouslyorganic.net/inflammation-how-to-reduce-it-naturally/ and https://deliciouslyorganic.net/10-things-need-know-detox/ Here is an online class that I found incredibly helpful: http://thethyroidsessions.com/order

I have tears in my eyes because this sounds like what is happening to me and I have been getting the run around and wasting money on tons of products that aren't helping me. I am going to get your book. Bless you and thank you for sharing.

Thank you for sharing your story. My 7 yr old daughter was diagnosed a few weeks ago with hashimoto's. Eventhough she must be in meds right now due to her age I am hoping to incorporate your recipes into our dinners. Thanks for the inspiration.

Thank you for sharing your story....I am on the road to recovery after suffering from rashes & hives, swollen knuckles, hair loss, weight gain, and unbelievable fatigue I was finally (after 3 years) diagnosed with adrenal fatigue. Now after eliminating grains and other food allergies & eating whole foods I am starting to see a light at the end of the tunnel. Still far off, but so good to know others are out there and their (your) story helps those of us on the flip side. I am excited to get your book and check out the recipes. Blessings to you.

I was wondering if you were actually diagnosed (antibodies came back in blood work) for Hashimotos or just suspected Hashimotos due to symptoms? I have an actual diagnosis and I was told by 2 naturopaths that it cannot be reversed. Proper nutrition will keep you from needing to have the thyroid removed but that I would always need a thyroid supplement. So I am really curious that you've never had meds. Did you go back to see what your TSH, T3 and T4 are?

I was diagnosed via blood work. Yes, we have gone back and my labs returned to normal. I personally chose not to take meds, but I know that's not the solution for everyone. Here are some really amazing resources that I think you'll find helpful: http://www.thyroidlifestyle.com, http://hashimotosinstitute.com, and http://thethyroidsessions.com

I was diagnosed because of bloodwork and reversed it and am medication free. My antibody levels were at 3100 when I was diagnosed and now they are gone. My Dr told me that your levels can go down if you are sensitive to gluten and you happen to have a lot of gluten before you get tested.

I have to ask, besides going grain-free, what else did you do to stay off Synthroid? I've been on Synthroid since about 10 or 11. My daughter was diagnosed with thyroid issues at 4. Yes, 4. I breast fed her over a year with very little formula (only at times when my supply dropped). I raised her on an organic diet with little processed food. And here we are today, both on Synthroid. My mom and sister also are on it too. If I go off it for more than a day I feel awful. What's the solution? Thank you in advance!

I personally think the "solution" is finding the root cause and then working on that issue first. My thyroid and other organs weren't working properly because my body was overtaxed with heavy metals, so we began working on the heavy metal issue and then the other things started to fall into place. I recommend getting out a calendar and making a list of everything that happened to you as a kid that you can remember such as: illness, exposure to something, antibiotics, was your mother ill when she was pregnant with you, dental work, etc. Finding the root to your illness will help you start figuring out what direction to take next. Here's a great site that discusses this very topic: http://www.thyroidlifestyle.com

So awesome! I love that you are sharing your journey and will definitely share! I just found out I have hypothyroidism that is most likely the cause of two recent miscarriages. That along with low progesterone. However, I haven't yet discovered if it's autoimmune or not. Until then I'm continuing to live a paleo lifestyle and take some natural supplements. I'm a firm believer in diet healing the body so 100% support and agree with you! Thank you for sharing!

Carrie! So very proud of you! What an inspiration you are to so many struggling. I know the feeling, first hand, you explained. I suffered with raging chronic hives all over my face, arms and neck for 2 years in 2007. I went through 10 doctors, every type of antihistamine, and steroid cream. I had such a feeling of hopelessness, just as you described. My issue turned out to be Autoimmune Progesterone Disorder. I am allergic to my own progesterone. Crazy, huh? Anyway, my sister and my mother in law, both have Hashimotos disease. I will be sure to share your story with them!

Do you feel this is the best way to start, by removing grains? I Also have hashimotos disease along with a list of other ailments. I am desperate but I Need a set plan in order for me to follow it n Do you have any recommendations

My meal plans might be of help for you. Currently, I'm offering a bonus for all who preorder my book - you receive a 3-month meal plan subscription and a grain-free holiday baking ebook. https://deliciouslyorganic.net/cookbook-bonus-offer/ I also recommend taking things slow so you don't get overwhelmed. Arm yourself with some solid recipes and I think you'll find it's not as difficult as it seems! :) https://deliciouslyorganic.net/category/index-categories/grain-free-2/

Hi I have hashimotos too and am currently taking thyroxine. I know diet has a big impact on how I feel but thought I would be on medication for the rest of my life regardless. I would love to ask you a few questions- do you still have antibodies? Is your TSH at an optimum level ? And do you still get it checked regularly? How long have you been able to keep it at optimum for without medication? And we're your Initial results high and you have brought them down or were they 'OK' and you have maintained that? I know there hasn't really been much research into hashi because the current treatments are so effective. My hashi is hereditary so I wonder about the whole detox thing as I feel mine was brought on by hormone changes during and after my first pregnancy. Thanks :)

My labs returned to normal and I keep a close eye on them. I've never taken any medications for my disease. My initial tsh was normal, but as the doctor kept running labs that when we discovered my reverse t3, free t3, free t4, antibodies, etc. were off (some were extremely elevated (like antibodies) and some were extremely low). Here's a complete list of labs that are needed to determine exactly where a patient is: http://www.stopthethyroidmadness.com/recommended-labwork/ I personally believe that anyone struggling with thyroid disease can benefit from a nutrient-dense diet.

I was exceptionally tired and weak but I continued to work out at the gym and work in clinic daily. A PA at SEARHC diagnosed me with Hashimotos straight away. Quick diagnosis and fix. Excellent care and follow up. Mild symptoms but so what. My thinking is this is mild compared to some diseases. Or perhaps my case was mild.

I have a burning question about amalgam fillings... is it safer to leave them in (I have a couple that are over 20 years old) as they break down (not ideal) or have them removed with the toxic vapour? I know there is meant to be a 'correct' procedure but worried I could make the situation worse. Thank you for sharing your story, your health journey is very inspiring.

It really depends on the health of the individual. If you are healthy, then you might want to look into getting them taken out by someone who is biologically trained, but if you have health issues, I would talk to a holistic practitioner before making any decisions. Sorry I don't have a clear-cut answer for you!

I just happened to click this link this morning and I usually don't open many. I am a mother whos 11 year old daughter was diagnosed with Hashimoto syndrome a little over a year ago. It was by a fluke that we discovered her thyroid levels were almost non existent. The pediatricians had apparently missed it for years even though her thyroid was growing to three times its size and we could never figure out why she was so tired and carrying extra weight and having headaches and rashes. It is so frustrating to have no idea how she contracted whatever it was that attacked her thyroid. Unfortunately she was put on Levothyroxine right away and with every 3 month checkup the dosage has increased because she is a developing preteen. It iwas devasting for us to be told that she will take this pill for the rest of her life because of the irreversible damage to her thyrroid. After reading your story , I am now so interested in trying this way of living for my family. Have you had any experience or feedback on its effect with children with this disease or similar symptoms? Thank you so much for sharing your experience . I look forward to getting your book and learning more.

I'm so sorry to hear of your daughter's health issues. I don't have any experience on this affect with children, but I highly recommend you read these two posts written by my nutritionist that might help you get started your family started on the right path: https://deliciouslyorganic.net/inflammation-how-to-reduce-it-naturally/ and https://deliciouslyorganic.net/10-things-need-know-detox/

I can't tell you how much this gives me some hope I've been diagnosed with autoimmune disorders since 1985. Hypothyroidism in 2002. And Hashimotos this year when I asked about the test. I've suffered from every ache and pain and weakness since birth. I have done tons of research and tried everything that I have found that applies to me in some way. I start and stop because I don't notice enough of a difference to the amount of discomfort I feel during all these trials and errors however if I knew it would take years I would of tried longer I have tried different things for the past 5 years mostly ways to loose weight and this past year on detoxing looks like I have a long but hopeful road ahead of me. I switched to coconut oil this past year and recently started drinking vanilla coconut milk. This past year I took the microwave out of the house, my pots and pans have been changed to stainless steel. I took out some of the cleaners. Switched to organic facial cleansers. I wont use deodorant. I don't go to McDonald's I try not to eat gluten, sugar, dairy and red meat. Sort of feels like torchure but i know these are some of the directions i need to go in. So thank you for giving me hope.

I'm so glad my story brought you hope. It sounds like you're making so many wonderful healthy changes. It's a slow process, but I firmly believe the body has an incredible ability to heal itself given the right tools!

I too have Hashing but unlike you I fell prey to the synthroid pill thinking thst was my only option and I couldn't have a normal life without it. Oh how I wish I had been more keen and less desperate for relief. What are the options for reversing Hashing for someone like me who has been on the meds for two years but would like to reverse the damage and bring my thyroid back to life? Is this even an option for me? Will I have to take synthroid the rest of my life?

I'm not sure how to get off of medications such as Synthroid, because I never took them. But, I would recommend looking into a grain-free and nutrient-dense diet, find a holistic practitioner to work, read my next cookbook (I give as much information as I could think of to help others reduce inflammation and start heal gin from disease), and read these two posts that my nutritionist wrote: https://deliciouslyorganic.net/10-things-need-know-detox/ and https://deliciouslyorganic.net/inflammation-how-to-reduce-it-naturally/ Hang in there! I truly think the body is capable of healing when given the right tools! Here are two sites to help you find someone to work with: https://www.functionalmedicine.org/practitioner_search.aspx?id=117 and www.primaldocs.com

Carrie, I so amazed after the struggles you went through and the steps you took to regain your health. I know how much you suffered but throughout it all, you have helped so many in your same path. I finally took your long ago advice and have been gluten free for four months. I feel incredible: no more stomach issues, migraines have decreased, stress is down. Jenn-Arizona

Thank you! I will give more details in the book, but until then I recommend you read these two posts written by my nutritionist on detox and inflammation: https://deliciouslyorganic.net/10-things-need-know-detox/ and https://deliciouslyorganic.net/inflammation-how-to-reduce-it-naturally/

I am so glad for you that you worked it out. I also have a similar story, a year ago I started having troubles with my skin and my doctor diagnosed Lichen planus an autoimmune disease. It was horrible always itchy and it hurted too and still have some scars from it. One night I watched a documentary from Joe Cross and his adventure about juicing and how it helped him. That gave me the idea of healing my body from the inside out. I started juicing but after a couple of days the detoxing and no food made me feel horrible so I introduced some food to the diet. Whole foods like fruits(no tropical because of their sugar content),raw salads and nuts. My skin got better right after a couple of days eating like this and drinking as much mean green juice as I could. I stuck to the diet for months and the lichen planus is totally gone.

This was just the article that I needed to read! I passed it on to my brother who has Graves disease. I was recently diagnosed with Lupus myself and I'm currently taking Plaquenil. I need to raise my blood complements according to my rheumatologist. He said that if this doesn't work then Prednisone is next. I don't wanna go that route. I want to heal my body. Can you tell me how you found your nutritionist? If I conducted an online search, what should I search for? I'm in NYC, so I'm hoping that I can find a nutritionist who specializes in helping autoimmune diseases in the area. Thank you so much! I have hope now! God bless.

I happened to find my nutritionist through a friend, but here are some fantastic resources for you (I'm sure you can find someone in NYC!): Here --> https://www.functionalmedicine.org/practitioner_search.aspx?id=117 Here --> http://www.abihm.org/search-doctors Here --> http://nutritionaltherapy.com/ntp-referral-list/ Here --> http://primaldocs.com Here are two posts I think you'll find incredibly helpful that were written by my nutritionist about detox and inflammation (I go into more detail about my detox and protocol in the book): https://deliciouslyorganic.net/inflammation-how-to-reduce-it-naturally/ and https://deliciouslyorganic.net/10-things-need-know-detox/

Yes it's absolutely possible to reverse Auto immune disorders and heal!! My story is almost identical- except my downward spiral was triggered by a bad bacterial infection I got while traveling in a 3rd world country... It took me 4 years to recover! None of the 1/2 dozen doctors I saw really knew how to cure my progressive Hashimotos, Fibromyalgia, Epstein Barr and Chronic Fatigue.. With a super clean, grain free, organic, non-GMO (autoimmune protocol diet, removing all triggers including corn, oats, and then also tomatoes, eggs, dairy for a while) nutrient diet AND high intensity exercise once I could handle the exertion 3 1/2 years later along with Thyroid medication (non-bio identical as to not trigger an immune reaction)... I was able to reverse my symptoms, diminish my pain and fatigue, grow my hair back and clear up my skin!! I feel years younger, strong, healthy and vibrant again even after doctors told me I may never recover..and I wouldn't have if I didn't make the extra effort to find my own answers and take extra care with my own diet and health! It is worth the effort and discipline it takes to do the right thing for your body! :)

Was the nutritionist you used someone who practices near where you live? I wouldn't know how to begin to find one who had the proper ideas about nutrition. So many follow current "expert" thinking and the government food pyramid. Also, what did you do to remove the heavy metals from your system? Clearly that was a major beginning step toward your recovery. I'm concerned I have heavy metal poisoning as well. I've tried all kinds of whole foods, grain-free diets, and while they help some, they don't do enough to get me off nasty prescription meds. Can you share your detox protocol and resources for locating a nutritionist? Thanks

I worked with a nutritionist at www.biodynamicwellness.com - We lived in CA for most of that time while I worked with them. I highly recommend any of their nutritionists. To find a holistic practitioner in your area: Here --> https://www.functionalmedicine.org/practitioner_search.aspx?id=117 Here --> http://www.abihm.org/search-doctors Here --> http://nutritionaltherapy.com/ntp-referral-list/ Here --> http://primaldocs.com Here are two posts I think you'll find incredibly helpful that were written by my nutritionist about detox and inflammation (I go into more detail about my detox and protocol in the book): https://deliciouslyorganic.net/inflammation-how-to-reduce-it-naturally/ and https://deliciouslyorganic.net/10-things-need-know-detox/

I think the most important part of your story is the balance we have to strike between the information from the traditional medical community and the rich traditions of healthy eating and toxin-free living that help support proper healing and functioning in the body. My lightbulb moment was being told by a board certified Duke endocrinology fellow that I was on the same one-way ticket to total Synthroid dependency. Had she not answered my question about thyroid-related weight gain with "reduce calories -- a calorie is a calorie" (i.e., 100 calories of junk food = 100 calories of healthy food), I might have gone on with no change. But I knew that that view of the body was flat wrong. With a gluten- and sugar-free diet, I've been able to reverse my Hashimoto's as well. Bravo for this message!

I worked with a nutritionist from www.Biodynamicwellness.com (I highly recommend anyone in thief practice!) To find a holistic practitioner in your area: Here --> https://www.functionalmedicine.org/practitioner_search.aspx?id=117 Here --> http://www.abihm.org/search-doctors Here --> http://nutritionaltherapy.com/ntp-referral-list/ Here --> http://primaldocs.com Here are two posts I think you'll find incredibly helpful that were written by my nutritionist about detox and inflammation (I go into more detail about my detox and protocol in the book): https://deliciouslyorganic.net/inflammation-how-to-reduce-it-naturally/ and https://deliciouslyorganic.net/10-things-need-know-detox/ Here is an online class that I found incredibly helpful: http://thethyroidsessions.com/order

Carrie i honestly appreciate your genuine response is there any way to reverse this massive hair loss and hair thinning i had long thick hair till knees until now when i discovered i have hypo-thyroidism iam becoming bald please dont suggest transplant or extensions iam utterly depressed please guide thank you may God bless you xx

I also was diagnosed with hashimoto thyroid. I did not take the synthroid. I went to naturapath and did mercury chelation. When I went back for physical the next year, thyroid was good. My MD did not even want to know what I did. The chelation was expensive and time consuming. There is a product that I am using now that pulls heavy metals and cesium and stothium out.

I was diagnosed a little over a year ago with CIDP, in autoimmune disease affecting the nerves. after the neurologist telling me that I would be in a wheelchair in 6 months I went to a naturopath instead. grain free diet with the AIP protocol and within 3 months I was walking again. I'm not totally healed yet but partly because I fall off the wagon and eat something I shouldn't once in awhile. hearing stories like yours and seeing the proof is so encouraging and keeps me going on a very restricted diet. thank you so much for sharing your story and for all your great recipes I really enjoy them.

I'm so happy that this showed up in my email today! I'm not at all surprised that I got teary reading this because I felt your pain when reading your story and looking at your photos - because I have photos like that of myself. I'm just so happy for you and love that you're helping others! I already knew that you had Hashimoto's and was just singing your praises to my massage therapist yesterday b/c her husband was just diagnosed, but get this - the doctor said not to worry about it! So, I'm sending him straight to you! Right along with anyone else who has Hashi's! Anyway, I had no idea that we shared similar stories with amalgam poisoning! I've also been through an awful lot and became bedridden last year after THINKING I was healthy with the food that I ate. Boy, was I wrong. Have I mentioned that I'm from Simply Fresh Cooking, btw? If I had been eating the right foods for my body (which is a diet that is just like yours), I'd have been able to better fight the things that happened to me - but you live, you learn! I'm much better now and brought my CRP (inflammation marker) down from a 26 to a .67!!! I'm also off of all meds as of a month ago! :) I'm all over the map with this comment. Lol. You already know what a fan I am of yours. Keep on inspiring others, gf! And you're beautiful!! xo

Hi again, Carrie - I just wanted to share that two weeks ago, I had my last amalgam removed SAFELY and I still wound up getting sick. Nothing like the first time, though. I had 27 sesh's of diarrhea (TMI, sorry) and some other things, but I'm doing okay now. I was just so surprised that even a safe removal from a holistic dentist could cause issues. But my body was ready for detoxing, this time around! P.S. Mercury is no bueno :) P.P.S. My new blog launches in less than 2 weeks! I'm so excited! :) :)

Hi There! Your story was very inspiring. I got teary-eyed reading it, as I can closely relate to your struggle. I was recently diagnosed with Lyme disease as well as several coinfections, and it took 5+ years to get finally diagnosed a few months ago. I went through dozens of doctors, being told there was either A) nothing wrong with me and I was making up my pain trying to score painkillers or various other drugs (even though I explicitly said I wanted to live drug-free) or B) it was allergies and thrown on a high dose of topical and oral steroids (10mg of prednisone per day+) or C) it was "some sort of autoimmune disease but we don't know which". It quickly killed my immune system and I became so violently ill for so long, I eventually couldn't even get out of or into bed without crying extensively due to the pain it caused, same with changing clothes and showering. I have little to no faith in doctors now and am constantly terrified I'm still misdiagnosed. A lot of the symptoms of your Hashimoto’s disease correlate with my symptoms as well, as my dry/swollen skin is still perplexing to the doctors. I've been on an anti-inflammatory diet, including gluten, corn, and dairy free, for over a year now and though I have seen some progress, it still fluctuates violently day-to-day. It's very discouraging to feel "normal" (as close as I can to normal these days) one day, and be unable to move the next. I'm also super allergic to really common, typically healthy, and annoying to avoid foods such as: garlic, carrots, most nuts, cranberries, and some more. I signed up for your mailing list and hope your diet can help me further along or at least help me establish some more consistency in my health. I would love to hear more about your story for both the motivation to overcome sickness and just to compare symptoms and experiences. Hope to hear from you. Sarah

Oh, sweet friend! I am definitely sharing your story! And I am praising God with you for leading you on this journey to healing! You are such a source of hope to so many and I am so excited about your new book. When I found out the grain-free lifestyle might help me better manage my autoimmune disorders, the Lord was so good to help me find you. So on a personal level, you have been such an inspiration and encouragement to me. I can't begin to thank you enough! I just know God will use your journey to bring hope to others and empower them to take charge of their health. Thank you again for all you do to bless us with your recipes, wisdom, resources and encouragement. And most of all for sharing your story of hope and healing with us! You are a BLESSING!! xo

Thyroid disease runs in my family ... both my mother and my identical twin sister have been diagnosed with Hashimotos. I have not and while I know I need to go see a doc about some hormone issues I have been having I can only wonder if it's because of our choice to do Organic/Paleo type diet - spotty even though it may be. I am really trying to get back in the swing of things with Grain Free again as I felt so much better when I was and I lost weight too. Thank you for this! I ordered your cookbook as well (haven't gotten the link to click back for the extras but I did order it can't wait!)

My daughter is 2, she has been diagnosed with polyarticular arthritis. She currently is on methotrexate and Humira. She is doing awesome, but I hate filling her body with these strong drugs each month that breed significant side effects. We eat very healthy- mostly all organic, I grow many of my own vegetables. I only buy grass feed beef or organic free range chicken. I make a lot of homemade items, so I know what I am putting into her body. She eats tons of fruit and drinks only water and almond milk... I tried at first to put her on a gluten free and vegan diet but every visit the arthritis was getting worst. What advice can you give me? I feel very guilty for all the meds that she is on.

My dear, I'm sorry that you are facing this. Read this post, maybe will help you, it's the case of a girls with multiple inflammation. http://drhyman.com/blog/2010/10/09/is-there-a-cure-for-autoimmune-disease/ As far as I know, both for us and babies the risk of developing autoimmune diseases increase if the person was borne by C section and was not breast feed. This may trigger the allergies. Have you tried to test her for gut infections, like Helicobacter or SIBO? Have you tested her for food intolerance, as she might not be only gluten intolerant, or dairy intolerant, she might have something else. Some can be allergic to apples, it is rare but i can be. Maybe the girl is not allergic at all to gluten/dairy, but only to something else. Try to reset her diet. For example meat is not allergic. And then try to reintroduce one by one aliments and see what happens. You can make a home test for food allergies with pulse, before and after eating something. Read also about GASP diet, of Natasha Cempbell MCBride. Or maybe your daughter is allergic to something from environment.

My dear, I'm sorry that you are facing this. Read this post, maybe will help you, it's the case of a girls with multiple inflammation. http://drhyman.com/blog/2010/10/09/is-there-a-cure-for-autoimmune-disease/ As far as I know, both for us and babies the risk of developing autoimmune diseases increase if the person was borne by C section and was not breast feed. This may trigger the allergies. Have you tried to test her for gut infections, like Helicobacter? Have you tested her for food intolerance, as she might not be only gluten intolerant, or dairy intolerant, she might have something else. Some can be allergic to apples, it is rare but i can be. Maybe the girl is not allergic at all to gluten/dairy, but only to something else. Try to reset her diet. For example meat is not allergic. And then try to reintroduce one by one aliments and see what happens. You can make a home test for food allergies with pulse, before and after eating something. Read also about GASP diet, of Natasha Cempbell MCBride. Or maybe your daughter is allergic to something from environment.

THANK YOU for sharing your story!!! I was diagnosed the same week we found out we were pregnant and I've experienced some of the darkest moments of my life in the last year, also the first year of our first childs life. I'm determined to reverse this horrible autoimmune disease and I have great docs and a clean diet but it feels like the journey is so long, tiring and expensive but when others like you share your story it gives me the strength to keep going! THANK YOU again! Blessings and God's abundance to you!

3 months ago, I received a diagnosis of lupus. I've always been fascinated with nutrition and so lately I've begun juicing and trying to eat better. I would love to not have to take the drugs the doctors tell me I need. At the age of 61 though, I fear it is too late for me. It is so hard to not give in to cravings. Your story gives me great hope though, and I have ordered your book in the hope that I will be able to use your plan. Thanks.

It's so beautiful how you are able to bring information and encouragement to others - not despite, but THROUGH your own journey, Carrie! And we all thank you now for your dedication to doing whatever it took for those many long months to heal yourself - now countless others will find health and healing because of it! I agree with Kelly (^^) - you are such a blessing! :)

In your book Deliciously Organic you say that in 2003 you were having daily migraines and by 2010 you had a migraine maybe once a month because you stopped eating processed foods and ate whole grains and organic foods. That cookbook is full of recipes containing whole wheat flour, and in that cookbook you make no mention of Hashimoto's disease. Did you develop Hashimoto's and adopt a grain-free diet after 2010?

My battle with migraines started in 2002 and ended in 2003. As soon as I switched over to organics/whole foods the migraines went away and I was able to get off of all of my medications. I had already signed a contract with a publisher for "Deliciously Organic" and was in the editing stages of the book when I was diagnosed with Hashimoto's. This is why that disease is never mentioned in that book. It was also so new and painful to me that I didn't even know how to write about it or what to say. It took me a while to even talk about it on the blog or start featuring gf recipes. I had to take some time to make sense of it all. Eventually when my disease began to reverse, I felt like I could wrap my brain around what happened and finally start writing about it and featuring gf recipes on the site. I have written grain-free adaptations to the first cookbook and they can be found here: https://deliciouslyorganic.net/product/grain-free-adaptations-cookbook/

I should also add that when I had to drop grains, I thought it wold be a diet I would need to follow for about 6 months or so and that would be it. I obviously didn't realize that sending a disease like this into remission takes years! My goal is to eventually add some soaked grains back into my diet. I still believe that those who have a healthy immune system can benefit from traditional grains. It's amazing how our bodies are so complex and need different things at different times!

My big question is did you ever go on medication? What were your TSH ,Ft3, FT4 and antibody results? What was your RT3? I take selenium and I also am grain free. My antibodies have decreased but I would die if I did not take my Nature Throid. I really mean DIE. Please be careful when posting this information, I love natural help for my disease but I have researched also and diet alone does not CURE hashi. There are readers that will take your word for gospel and that is dangerous to someone who requires replacement.

I'm sorry to hear of your health issues. I posted my story to bring hope and encouragement, not to discourage. I understand that everyone is different and our root issues are all different. I never took any medications and after several years of diet and detox therapies my labs returned to normal. I am not claiming that I "cured" my disease because I know if I started to make choices that weren't right for my body I could drive myself back in the other direction. I'm not the only one with the story of reversal/remission. I encourage you to check out www.thyroidlifestyle.com and www.sarahwilson.com and read the success stories (there are also many others who've shared their success stories here in the comments). It's a long road, but I firmly believe the body can heal when given the proper tools.

Where were your labs in the first place? I have a family history of Hashi. I guess that if I need NDT to survive I am OK with that. My TSH was 156 at diagnosis. I was a couple of weeks away from an ICU bed. I think that is why the diet theory makes me nervous. I cannot be without replacement. Healing the body is a wonderful thing, one way or the other. Just please continue to encourage diet changes but also include that sometimes it may not work. The internet is a powerful thing.

Hello Carrie, Thank you for posting your story and photo's. I have been receiving your newsletter, recipes and other inspiring information since I found you a couple of months ago. I have significant immune issues, not thyroid related according to my blood work however, I appreciate your reminder to get tested for heavy metals. I thought you might like this site, it is a great resource in regard to heavy metal detox, etc...: http://www.thenaturalrecoveryplan.com/ I think I will call my primary Dr. and schedule in a heavy metal test asap! Thanks for all your efforts, Andrea

Yes, it is amazing—and so hard to know exactly what our body needs at any given time. I am still having a migraine about once a week even though I eat only organic, unprocessed foods and have eliminated all the food triggers and, to the extent possible, all other triggers associated with migraine disease. It’s probably taking longer for me because I’m so much older than you (68) and have had migraines all my adult life. Was there anything else you did that helped with your migraines? Restoring our bodies to good health can be a long journey, as you well know. I’m going grain-free now, so thank you for the cookbook conversions. I’ll be ordering your new cookbook or telling my family I want it for Christmas. Thank you, Carrie, for helping and inspiring me and so many others.

Nancy - When I went grain-free my "once a month" migraine went away! I think it probably had to do with the fact that my insulin levels weren't going up and down from the constant intake of grains. Now I only get a migraine if I've been exposed to something like lots of smoke (even a campfire) or lots of perfume. Good luck on your grain-free journey! If you have any questions, please feel free to write! :)

After many, many years. of unsuccessful attempts to achieve a euthyroid state, my doctor and I finally decided that it wasn't going to happen as I could not tolerate the higher doses of medication he said I needed to get me there We settled for the best we could get with the dose I could tolerate. After switching to a grain free, nutrient dense diet (I am following a blood type diet - making nutrient dense smoothies and green juicing) my last set of thyroid blood tests were the best ever, so things are finally improving. Only time will tell if they will continue to improve but I am feeling a whole lot better than before making the diet changes so that is enough to keep me going.

I was diagnosed last June 2014. It was overwhelming at first, listening to what the doctors were telling me. I had been eating a paleo diet for the past two years, but, I had kinda fallen off the wagon in recent months. I started looking around the internet, stumbled upon your blog and a few others, got the info I needed to start healing myself . I am taking the synthroid, but, through my diet, I have been able to get my antibodies to respond (900+) when diagnosed, 537 as of last week! It is working, and I'm feeling so much better. Thank you sooo much! because of women like you, we are given our power back. I've even started thinking, maybe it's good thing this happened to me, because I see women helping each other and forming communities...something I thought was long gone in our society. Now for breakfast, bone broth soup : )

I have thyroid issues as well and have reversed them with diet alone. However, you don't have to go grain free. I went on a diet that consists of the following: 85% raw, 15% cooked food, removal of all animal products (vegan), removal of sugar and caffeine and the addition of lots of homemade vegetable juices. As I said I do eat grains, but only whole, sprouted and/or non bleached grains. In other works no white rice or white flours. Within 2 months of being on this diet my TSH dropped 20% and I felt great! After one year on the diet, my TSH is now within normal limits. My antibody level was never tested until now and it is at 260. I have no idea how high it might have been a year ago. I have not been officially diagnosed with Hashimoto's because no one checked the antibodies til now but I am assuming I have it. I have never been on medication because as it was getting close to that time, I decided to try diet instead. AND it worked!!!! The positive health effects I have experienced are numerous: weight loss, cleared up Rosacia, lots more energy, minimized hair loss, no more dry itchy skin, no more chronic post nasal drip, no more chronic cough, warts that I have had for four years (that have been treated by a dermatologist for years with no success all the way to laser treatments) are gone!!! I always believed that food could make a difference and now I am living proof. I do eat grain and it doesn't have any negative effect on me.

Carrie, thanks for sharing your story. I felt as if it was I telling the story. I had cervical spine surgery in 2012, then was on injections for frozen shoulder. Still have frozen shoulder but was diagnosed with RA. So I am on several meds. Also suffer with thyroid disease. Went from hyper, hypo to having a nodule on my thyroid. My levels are OK now. But my skin is in terrible health. I was just at the er with a fear that my skin was burning off. This has been getting worst day by day. I am at the end of my rope. When you are working with people daily and someone notices your features changing right before their eyes it makes your self esteem just disappear from your soul. I am so glad my daughter found this site. One question was your rash elevated by medication? I want to stop all medication. Please reach out to me again . it is a blessing to know there is hope. Thanks again Debbie

I'm glad you found something to help you. Personally, I was told about clinoptilolite and it was such a blessing. It was a simple, cheap, and effective heavy metal detox that changed my life. I wish more people knew about it and how easy and effective it is. I guess it just sounds too easy and too good to be true. It's sad that effective courses of action are swept under the rug, and more difficult and expensive and profitable items are espoused.

Hi, can you recommend what kind of testing is best to see about heavy-metal toxicity? (saliva, blood, urine-test, etc.) In 2009 at 28 years old I had sudden and extreme Hashimoto's symptoms onset from taking birth control for one month only. Since then I have tried to heal with a 100% grain-free, organic, and nutrient dense diet. I tested high for lead but not mercury as I also was suspicious of this as a cause. I did chelating regimes to remove lead from my body. Unfortunately, none of these things has helped me recover from systems I still suffer from and I don't feel hopeful I will be able to go off of thyroid medication. Can you share how many years you were on thyroid medication and if you have been able to go off completely now? Thank you for this article!

Hair analysis and blood tests are good ways to check for heavy metal toxicity. It might also be good to have a liver panel done to see how the liver is functioning. I never took any thyroid medications, so I've been medication-free throughout the entire process. Dr. Murphy from Cornerstone Health in Omaha is a genius when it comes to chelation therapies. Or, if you'd like to find someone closer that is coming from a holistic perspective, here's a great list of resources: https://www.functionalmedicine.org/practitioner_search.aspx?id=117 http://www.abihm.org/search-doctors http://nutritionaltherapy.com/ntp-referral-list/ http://primaldocs.com Here are two posts I think you'll find incredibly helpful that were written by my nutritionist about detox and inflammation (I go into more detail about my detox and personal protocol in the book): https://deliciouslyorganic.net/inflammation-how-to-reduce-it-naturally/ and https://deliciouslyorganic.net/10-things-need-know-detox/ Here is an online class that I found incredibly helpful: http://thethyroidsessions.com

I went grain free in June 2014 because I was doing a raw food detox. I have never gone back to eating grains since because I feel so good off of them. To my surprise I was able to go off my thyroid medication 2 months ago and my previous thyroid symptoms of being fatigued and gaining weight and many others all vanished! My thyroid is now functioning all on its own! I frequent your site often to get recipes and for inspiration. Thank you! And I'm so happy your well and living the life you were put here to live. Many blessings!

Your website was one of the first I stumbled upon when researching information regarding my own diagnosis with Hashimoto’s about five years ago. I was told by my, otherwise extremely wonderful, Functional Medicine doctor that I probably could not heal, reverse or put the disease into remission. When I’m told something like that my stubborn side comes out! LOL! After I read your story I became unbelievably empowered to prove her wrong! I’m here to say that two months ago my blood tests came back NEGATIVE for the antibodies! I can’t tell you the feelings that washed over me! I cried and then got on the phone, Facebook and everywhere else I could, to tell people! Thank you Carrie for sharing your story! It proves that this information DOES need to be shared! I don’t know if you were ever on thyroid replacement medication (Armour, Naturthroid, etc.), but if you were, were you able to get off it at some point? That’s the next thing I’m committed to - if possible. My naturopathic doctor promised to keep that in her radar, but said I may have to remain on it depending on how much damage Hashimoto’s did. I’m keeping positive!! Thanks for all you do to inspire and encourage!

How wonderful!! I'm so thrilled for you! It's funny how someone telling us "no" can create a fire within. :) To answer your question about the meds - I was never on medications. I highly recommend the book, "Hashimoto's Thyroiditis; Lifestyle Interventions for Finding and Treating the Root Cause" by Izabella Wentz. She discusses how to get off of medications. It's a great book! http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0615825796?ie=UTF8&creativeASIN=0615825796&tag=deliciorgan03-20

Thank you so much for replying to my post. I feel even more empowered to work towards my goal of eliminating the thyroid medication. I know there’s a chance I might not be able to, BUT, like Winston Churchill said, “Never, never, never give up.” :-) I am so happy you suggested (and reminded me about) the book by Izabella Wentz. I learned about her book a couple of months ago after viewing a podcast by her - and totally forgot about it! So thank you again! I’ll be purchasing it now, for sure! Looking forward to my next journey. :-) Oh, I’ll be purchasing your new cookbook, too! Thanks again Carrie. Wishing you continued success in your own journey to remain healthy and in helping others to do the same! Pam

Thank you so much for replying to my post. I feel even more empowered to work towards my goal of eliminating the thyroid medication. I know there’s a chance I might not be able to, BUT, like Winston Churchill said, “Never, never, never give up.” :-) I am so happy you suggested (and reminded me about) the book by Izabella Wentz. I learned about her book a couple of months ago after viewing a podcast by her - and totally forgot about it! So thank you again! I’ll be purchasing it now, for sure! Looking forward to my next journey. :-) Oh, I’ll be purchasing your new cookbook, too! Thanks again Carrie. Wishing you continued success in your own journey to remain healthy and in helping others to do the same! Pam

Oh my goodness! I can relate with exactly how you felt in those pictures of before and after. I also know that the pictures don't do it justice. I remember looking at my before recovery pictures thinking these look bad but they don't show what I was feeling on the inside. Anyway, I am so happy to hear of your recovery and how you did it. I have a very similar story of healing from Hashimotos through food with before and after pictures. You can read my health journey at www.feastingonjoy.com It is amazing the power of what we put in and on our body has on our health. Blessings to you on your continued journey of wellness and thank you for sharing!

I am so very happy to hear how you were able to heal from this. I have a friend whose father's foot was saved by Manuka Honey, a friend whose White Blood Count was raised with Chlorella and others. Foods, nutrition and detoxification can do amazing things for our bodies. I am a big proponent of dry brushing and infrared sauna use as well. I am truly very very glad for you. How discouraging and painful that had to be for you. Keep smiling!

I am so glad I found this website! I recently had a severe breakout of some sort on my face. My face burned like it was on fire, swelled up and looked chapped with stretched peeling skin. Not a good look for a cafeteria lady. Anyway I went to urgent care where they said it was my eczema, but maybe could be impetigo! What?? The only reason they were willing to rule impetigo out was because my face was so swollen. Basically they didn't know what I had but felt compelled to give me a 5 day dose of Prednisone and a tube with antibiotic ointment for my face. Neither one did very well. I don't know what I had but when I saw your post; I kinda got excited because it looks just like what was on my face. Thank you for sharing your story and bringing me hope. I do continue to suffer from severe excema from head to toe and I have been searching for a way to cure it.

I also took prednisone for over 2 years. on and off but always got back to it. I got tired of being on steroids and went cold turkey decided to heal without medication. I have been doing an elimination diet without any medication. It has been tough, there are times when I almost take the prednisone again but I remember the side effects and the urge to take it is gone. Steroids only cover temporarily, they will never cure it. I am sure everything starts from the inside. I just came back from my allergy specialist and he gave me a very specific elimination diet. He says that because I am allergic to different pollens, some foods cross react with pollen so by doing the elimination diet I will be able to know what exactly I have to avoid. I bought Carrie's book which I can't wait to read and definitely will follow her steps to see what happens. I hope you find the right path soon. I know how horrible is living like this. Claudine

My 4 year old has t1 diabetes, hashimotos and celiac disease. While I am not here to tell you that going gluten free has solved all of his problems (honestly, it's done nothing but manage his celiac) but I am glad to have any help with cooking for this family. For the last 2 years our family of 6 has had had to completely overhaul our way of eating. Thank you for putting information out there for people like me who just need help in dealing with these issues.

See my comment for Lindsey Neuhard. I read about a young guy that discovered that he had t1 diabetes that he stays 100% of medication by being raw vegan. you can google for him, he is studying natural medicine

I am so looking forward to getting your book. I too have hashimoto's, and the cystic acne and other symptoms have really had me down. I am already on a whole foods, organic diet. And while I have been g-f for years, I just went grain-free a couple weeks ago after reading your blog. No change yet, but I am hopeful. Conventional doctors and naturopaths have not been able to help me. I was wondering it you noticed going grain-free helped reduce gassiness? I am gassy and bloated all the time. :(

I'm sorry to hear of your health issues, but ms glad you're looking to diet to help. I never had an issue with grassiness, but many of my friends said that after they quit grains the gas subsided. I would give it some more time as it takes a while sometimes for inflammation to reduce and for the body to start repairing. Remember, it's a marathon - not a sprint. Hang in there!

Hi Carrie, I am inspired by your blog. I bought your book and I can't wait to read it. I have been suffering from eczema for a long time. I now, started an elimination diet as I got tired of steroids that only gave me temporary relief. I look pretty much like you when you had the rash on your face and neck. I have it on my inside elbows too. Does Hashimoto's disease need to involve swollen of the neck. I have seen horrible photos . My neck is swollen like yours and very irritated but nothing like a big lump. Because I have allergies to various pollens, some foods that caused cross reaction with this pollens cause me allergies too. Did you have the same? Claudine

I have Hashimoto's/Celiac. Diagnosed in Jan 2012.Have had 12 mercury fillings removed and been on a autoimmune-paleo diet and still could not gain weight. I was very strict and never cheated but I always felt something was missing. I had bone loss in my jaw and my hair continued to fall out. My body craved dairy all the time. So even though I reacted to dairy I took the chance on RAW dairy. Yes..Raw. Found a farmer one state over..checked out his facility...and ordered milk. Have been drinking it since June. My endocrinologist refuses to check my antibodies so I'm not sure what's happening there...but my BM have gone done significantly and have become cohesive. The authorities warn against raw milk all the time..e. coli..blah..blah..blah. My body has gotten stronger with RAW milk and I have just started eating cooked sprouted lentils. I am on Westhroid 32.5M and I was hoping that being on medication would not mask any negative syptoms. But I would think if I were going to react to RAW milk my digestion would be worse not better. Fingers-crossed...I will be looking for a new endo who will check my antibodies so I can gauge my success or not. RAW milk provides enzymes which help with digestion and pasteurized milk is basically milk with deformed proteins that is why most people react to it...as I did. Hope this helps someone.

I completely agree with you about the raw milk. We've been drinking pastured, raw milk for many years and have seen many positive affects. I'm sorry to hear your doctor isn't open to testing your blood levels for you. It's sad how close-minded some doctors can be. Thanks for sharing!

Dear Carrie, I too have suffered from eczema, and adrenal exhaustion, even before my horrendous sudden divorce and custody battle. A very stressful life can drain our glandular system as well. I noticed when hyou said enjoy my children, (no husband? -stress) I ended up going to a chinese herbalist in Berkeley, Dr. Joel Harvey, L.Ac., Shen Clinic-www.Dr.Shen. He prescribed an herbal formula to rebuild my kidney meridian, which is the tree trunk of our body. I noticed that the meridian runs up the back bone into the brain and follows the glandular system, also the chakra system! Chakra's chanel emotional info/energy into-out of the body. I have studied holistic health, bodywork, astrology and have a degree in Human Development. I've learned a lot about the effects of stress on the body via an emotionally abusive mom, life, and divorce from an emotional abuser, I also like topical homeopathic remedies for eczema, Florasone by B &T or Boiron. works quick!

I also have Hashimotos and adrenal fatigue and am thankful that I have caught Hashimotos early (I’m 30). I decided not to listen to what my conventional thyroid doctor told me and find the root cause. I have begun to reverse the disease as well through diet. After going to a functional medicine doctor, I also discovered that I had exposure to mold and had to go through a long four month "mold detox" and dieoff as my doctor was convinced that Mold has caused some of my issues. I also believe that candida problems are to blame as well. I’m finding that unfortunately when you discover you have one issue, others crop up because the body and immune system is so worn down. The great news is that even though it’s hard to stay focused on the end goal at times, my antibodies have gone from 81 to 21 in about two years due to going gluten and dairy free. I will say that my headaches, joint pain, swollen legs, cystic acne, heart palpitations, insomnia, fatigue, frequent crashes, anxiety, PMS, restless legs, and weight - have all improved through diet. I have tried grain free, but need to commit full time to bring those last antibodies down. Your story is an inspiration to go that last step. I will say that I could not have done it without the countless blogs like yours that have helped me come to these conclusions on my own and take control of my health. Thank you for sharing your story! Anyone who is on instagram, free to follow me as I post my foodie pictures: TOHEALTHWITHIT

Glad you found some relief, but I think you are misleading people. Once an autoimmune disorder is turned on, it can't be turned off. Maybe you did have heavy metal poisoning and once it cleared your system you felt better. But if you had the hashi's antibodies they didn't just go away. I'm all for eating good clean food, I've been Paleo for 2.5 years and I still very much suffer from Hashi's. Don't think you should mislead people to sell your book.

I am simply sharing my personal story to bring hope and encouragement to others. Hashimoto's remission is possible and I'm not the only one who has experienced this. Here are some other success stories over on The Thyroid Pharmacist blog: http://www.thyroidlifestyle.com/#!page4/cfvg

Dear Carrie, I bought your book and started reading it. It is fascinating and I am sure it will help a lot. Just wanted to ask you whether you continued taking hormonal supplements when you started your diet or you decided not to take them anymore. I have started on your diet while taking levothyroxine (I was diagnosed with Hashimoto's 3 weeks ago). The pills caused a acne reaction so now I will be off them for several days. Do you have any advice to share?

I'm so glad you are finding the book helpful! I really appreciate the feedback. :) I never took hormonal supplements, but did take various supplements as prescribed by my nutritionist to support the function of the thyroid, detox the liver and such. I still take a few basic supplements to maintain and keep everything in balance (those of course change, as my body needs different things at different times). I really don't have any experience with the prescription medications and recommend you talk to your doctor, or possibly find a holistic practitioner to work with who can advise you. Here's a list of places online to find a holistic practitioner to work with: www.deliciouslyorganic.net/contact Hang in there! It's a marathon, not a sprint! :) here's a post I wrote over on Hypothyroid Mom that you might find helpful: http://hypothyroidmom.com/5-things-i-learned-during-my-battle-with-hashimotos-disease/

I just got diagnosed with Hashi's and I'm 27, and have the same wrinkles around the eyes! I always wondered why my face would go up and down in size, and my neck had constant wrinkles. Now I know :) I went to a functional medicine doc and he told me im in the 95th percentile for uranium. How did you safely chelate the heavy metals out? I heard sometimes chelation can be worse for you because the metals go into your bloodstream and can stress the system. Thanks for sharing this beautiful story!

I have been battling a "mystery" illness since January of this year and wonder if I can benefit from a grain free diet. It began with the abrupt onset of objects in my field of vision moving slightly back and forth while trying to fixate on them, and has remained 24/7 to this day. I also had a myriad of symptoms such as sinus pressure, head pain, ear pain & pressure, vertigo, off balance and more for almost 6 months. I still experience those symptoms from time to time, but it has gotten a bit better. The diagnostic findings were a right sided vestibular weakness and ocular flutter, but with no known cause or treatment. I was tested extensively for heavy metals, thyroid, lyme's, etc., including a brain MRI, all which came back normal. As a believer I have pled with the Lord for wisdom and guidance and I have tried other diets but they never worked. I have accepted this trial and am submitting to His refining work in my life during this time, but I also know He is a healer and I long to get better. I do believe in the power of food as medicine, I just feel so lost. My neurologist suggested I try gluten free but perhaps that is not enough. Some doctors talked to me about inflammation in my ear, but no one knows for sure. Maybe this diet can help if my body is truly inflamed. It's definitely frustrating to have zero answers. Thanks for sharing your story. I just purchased your cookbook and can't wait to try the recipes. Prayer are always welcome!!

even my 5 years son also have hasimotos thyoiditid i started grain free and dairy free with the help of NAET treatment.on sep/2014 antitpo was 262 and december i check antitpo become less than 62 range is(0-100) does it mean he can get in later life hypo or hyper

That's fantastic! I also used so,e NAET therapies at the beginning of my treatment. I can't say for sure if he will get hypo or hyper later on in life, but it sounds like you're on the right track! I would consult with a holistic practitioner to understand what he health of his thyroid will look like as you move forward. Keep up the good work!

thanks i finish already 14 basic tratment of naet. which year u took naet treatment and u have completed 15 basic treatment,after that how many years ur tsh and antitpo was normal range thanks and regads

i love all of the info and totally believe in this protocol. However, readers need to be careful with whether or not you can reverse Hashi's. I can see where it may be possible in the early stages, but for people with a long-term history with this disease, the damage may be beyond repair. I had a sonogram on my thyroid...the doctor referred to it as "Swiss cheese." It cannot be fixed. All that said, I find a grain-free lifestyle is extremely beneficial to my overall wellbeing.

At this point I am on pigs throid extract.. having the right doctor to help you is very important, one that is holistic but still a specialist in thyroid or a gp who knows what you want to do.. and have the correct blood tests.. try this website,http://www.doctorsaredangerous.com. you may be able to find a doctor on your area

Hi, I just bought you book in hopes that it will help my 17 YO daughter. She was diagnosed with hashimotos 2 years ago. She keeps gaining weight and she works out every day and plays softball. (this is killing her) She tried synthroid and it made her feel horrible, she has not been on it for a year. We went gluten free about 8 months ago. Her anti-bodies are 100 and her TSH levels are 12. We went to the Dr. today and we were told she should be on synthroid again. This did not go over well. I am going to try coconut oil, what are your feeling on coconut oil?? Any other advise would be appreciated. Thank you for the information. I hope to hear from you!

Hi Karen, you may want to ask the Dr. to prescribe Tirosint for your daughter for the time being. It is a purer form and comes in a liquid gel. I had an allergic reaction every time my Dr upped my dosage on either Synthroid or Levothyroxin. I am obviously allergic to the fillers in them. I broke out in hives, my hair was dull, thinning and felt like straw. I had NO energy. I had a very hard time concentrating, etc.... It was awful. Shortly after starting Tirosint I felt much better. I have been on it for almost a year now with no negative effects. I would love to be off medicine but for the time being I will take Tirosint. It is a lot more expensive costing $90 a month with my insurance but it's worth it to me. I hope this helps.

Hi there, I too have reversed my hashimotos. I googled on how to stop the antibodies, went off gluten, juiced and cooked all goitron foods. The juicing of kale (raw) did not seem to bother me though. I had been eating a very clean diet for well over a year so this partial fast and omitting gluten stopped the antibodies completely..

I am so happy to have had this show up in my feed... I have Hashimotos and have been struggling for almost two years. I must order your book, I've been praying for something like this! I am also gluten intolerant so I don't eat gluten... But I still eat gluten free grains. I can't wait to try your approach and see what changes I can make to improve my quality of life. Thank you!!!

I Have Graves disease , cut out all gluten, while graves won't disappear, my blood work is all in the normal range now, have no more need for medications for my thyroid. Everything I have read showed me gluten is bad for you. I also, don't do dairy or soy, because I want to keep my thyroid in the normal range. Gluten is so bad for us, and wish I knew then what I know now. !

Thank you for sharing your story. I hope many others are inspired and helped by reading this blog. Seeing someone recover from such difficult health problems never fails to excite me. I think a person's story is more helpful to inspire someone else to take charge of their health than a doctor telling them what to do. Food is such an important medicine.

This is an enlightening story of the damage that the American Dental Association has suppressed for decades. I have been learning about mercury filings for a while now. I first became aware of this issue from Dr. Hal Huggins (R.I.P. November 2014) who was being attacked for even mentioning that this was a major danger. Still, people do not believe that this is of any concern because the dental association "assures them it is completely safe". I have spoken to four dentists in the local area, and they all still perform dental fillings using mercury. Sad

Maybe you can help me!! I am just starting this journey. I found a hormone dr. And im under going lots of blood tests to determine if i have hashimotos. I am diagnosed with hypothyriodism.... when i read in your testimony about the dentist office it struck a nerve. When i was in the womb in 1980 at camp legune marine corps base i was being poisoned by the water. My mother bottle fed me with the water. I was on base for 3 yrs. I had a welms tumor surrounding my kidney and adrenal gland which was removed. 6 lbs at 5 yrs old. I have had hashi symptons in my opinion my entire life. Would you help me??? Do you think the Hashi is because of the poison my body endured as a young girl? I have cut out gluten and dairy and caffine, but im still not right. I take 125 of synthriod daily.

I'm sorry to hear of your health issues. The root cause for you could be what happened to you when you were in the womb. If you have Hashimoto's you should look into cutting out all grains, as they can irritate the thyroid. I would also find the help of a holistic practitioner who can help you figure out the root cause and give you a plan to help you heal. I also just wrote a new post giving lots of tips that you might find helpful: https://deliciouslyorganic.net/50-tips-resources-help-reverse-thyroid-disease/

my grandaughter developed hashimotos at age 17 after getting the gardasil shot. she stiffened up and fell off table after getting shot. thousands of other girls have also had this reaction and developed hashimotos. hypothyroidism runs in our family. i have it and also fibromyalgia, but i now have a autoimmunity problem called burning tongue syndrome. i have had it non stop for 16 months now. i have been to 7 different doctors. all say we dont know what causes it so they dont know what can cure it. can only help with symptoms. have you ever heard of this condition. with all the talk of dental fillings and all i am wondering if a dental procedure may have caused this. it started after i went to dentist to have a cap replaced. i have tried everything to get rid of it. right now i am, on my own, doing lots of vitamins. and brushing my teeth with baking soda. have heard mint in toothpaste could be trigger. today my tongue feels so much better. i enjoyed reading all these comments and your story.

Hi! I just read your post and am amazed at your story. I have an auto-immune disease called Vitiligo. Have you heard of it and if so, do you think it could be food related? They say there is no cure. Thank you!

Thank you for all the information on your site! I have Hashimotos and some Lupus antibody markers and for the last 5 month's have been having chronic hives that cover me head to toe. Along with all the other symptoms. I've done a lot of reading and know the things I need to do to help myself (remove amalgam fillings, metals cleanse, candida cleanse, heal my gut, eat only organic Paleo diet because I can't handle, dairy, grains, soy, corn or sugar. Take supplements I'm lacking in etc ,etc. The problem is, it all costs so much money. I keep saying this is a rich persons disease lol, cause you need to have money to treat it! I'm slowly trying to do things. Just got one of 5 fillings removed, trying my best to stick to mostly organic. Taking supplements when I can, taking natural dessicated thyroid instead of synthetic. It is very frustrating knowing everything I need to do to heal but not being able to do it. I will get there eventually, just gotta do one thing at a time as I can afford it. Thank you for the inspiration. I'm hoping in 5 years I will have been able to do it all and be feeling much better!

Hi Carrie For over 12 years I had all the symptom's of Hashimoto bouts of overactive and under active thyroid but constantly told by 2 gp's and to specialists { you need rest ) you're depressed take xanax , which I didn't . The skin condition I have has affected 80% of my body and the burning pain is sometimes especially on my legs . One doctor had me sobbing coz he said I had ocd and must have kept rubbing my skin , I told him it's to painful to touch . Another Dr of 20 yrs I'd been seeing would shrug and say its so ugly , I didn't need to be told that I already knew that , I stopped seeing both of those Drs . So now after falling very ill 6 months ago to a state where I had to go to bed by lunchtime and sleep 12 hrs tests showed anemia , vitamin D def under active thyroid , the Dr said O'h you've never had thyroid problems b4 ! I was like yes I have several times . She goes Oh looks at pc and states you're right . She called me 4 months ago and requested I go in an see her , I asked what my results were because that's what she wanted to see me about . She said Oh no I wanted to know why you didn't have the endoscopy done ! I said I want to wait until my skin is clearer and then asked about my thyroid . She stated Oh no she wouldn't put me on meds because they rarely help . On Friday I wasn't feeling well I've been really sick for the past week and my skin isn't good either , so I saw a different Dr at the same surgery and requested a medical cert to list my illnesses and when I arrive home , I read over it as I had to scan a copy and ( fax to someone ) that's when I found out I had Hashimoto ! So now I came across your site and I thank you because I have many bad days with my skin condition and having to wear long sleeves and long pants in summer to hide my scars and the pain . But I will certainly ask my Dr why she didn't tell me , I'm sure that's why she called me in 4 months ago . Just glad I saw a different GP last week. I wrote all this not to complain but as a release because I have become rather recluse , but if it helps one person to pursue finding out their health condition when medical staff tell you there is nothing wrong with you then it is worth it . So glad I found your blog ! I will be starting gluten free this week

I'm so sorry to hear of your health issues. It's incredible that you didn't find out you had Hashimoto's until you asked for a list! Wow! I hope the info I share will be of help to you. Make sure and check out my "50 Tips and Resources to Help You Reverse Thyroid Disease". It's all of my best tips in one post! :)

Hi, I have dealt with eczema for many years myself, as well. But after reading your post above, how do know it wasn't more your diet changes, that actually helped you heal, rather than it being an amalagam poisoning? Just curious.

I tested positive for an overload of heavy metals in my system and had become allergic to almost every food (vegetables, meat, fruit, dairy, grains, etc.). I've been able to add all of those foods except grains back to my diet (and have been eating them for over 4 years without any issues), so the issue wasn't that I had allergies to all of those foods, but rather excessive inflammation in my body due to an overload of heavy metals which had of course led to thyroid disease.

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